Pakistan Suspends Internet Services in Islamabad and Rawalpindi ahead of anti-Israel Protests

Pakistani authorities have suspended mobile internet services and sealed off major roads in the capital, Islamabad, and its neighboring city, Rawalpindi, in an attempt to preempt and control a major protest march planned by a religious group. The move, which began late on Friday, has caused widespread disruption for citizens and businesses in the twin cities.

The measures were enacted in response to a call by the hardline religious party, Tehreek-e-Labbaik Pakistan (TLP), for a "Million March" on the capital, primarily aimed at protesting international developments. The government has taken a strict security posture following earlier clashes between TLP workers and police in Lahore that resulted in injuries to dozens.

The decision to cut off communications was formalized by a government body, citing security concerns. The Ministry of Interior issued a directive to the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA), the country's telecom regulator, ordering the suspension of mobile data.

According to a notification from the Ministry of Interior and Narcotics Control, which was reportedly approved by Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi, the PTA was directed to "suspend 3G/4G services in the twin cities of Islamabad and Rawalpindi, starting from 12 a.m. tonight [Friday] till further orders." This official action was taken to disrupt the protesters’ ability to coordinate and mobilize using social media and mobile messaging apps.

In addition to the mobile internet suspension, the Islamabad administration has heavily barricaded the city’s entry and exit points, including using shipping containers to block key roads leading to the Red Zone, which houses the parliament, government offices, and diplomatic missions. The Rawalpindi district administration also enforced Section 144, which bans all public gatherings, rallies, and processions, until October 11, citing the risk of violent acts near sensitive installations.

The stringent security measures, while intended to maintain law and order, have severely impacted daily life. Commuters faced massive delays, public transport services like the Metro Bus were suspended, and professional bodies, including the Islamabad High Court Bar Association, reported that lawyers were unable to reach the courts due to the blockades. Law enforcement agencies remain on high alert as the capital remains under lockdown.

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